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Zeina Khoury The Resilient Leader and Cultural Ambassador By Diana Brown Zeina Khoury, known as the “Queen of Versace,” is a Lebanese entrepreneur, reality TV star, and influential figure in Dubai’s real estate and cultural landscapes. Her journey is one of resilience and ambition, marked by a blend of business acumen and cultural pride. Born and raised in Lebanon, Zeina faced the challenges of political instability, which led her to move to Dubai in 2006. She embraced the city as her second home, building a secure and prosperous life for her family, including her children, Joe and Alexa. Starting her career in Dubai as a property consultant at Emirates Sunland, she rose through the ranks to become the CEO of High Mark Real Estate. Her leadership at the firm, which manages luxury properties such as Palazzo Versace Dubai and D1 Tower, established her as a respected name in the competitive real estate market. In addition to her real estate ventures, she co-founded BookAnyService.com, an AI-driven platform for on-demand services, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit and adaptability. Zeina’s pursuit of knowledge has played a pivotal role in her success. She holds a degree in finance from Notre Dame University in Lebanon and has completed advanced programs at Columbia Business School, Wharton Online, and London Business School, where she graduated in 2022. Her academic background complements her strategic approach to business and leadership. As a star of the Netflix series Dubai Bling, Zeina gained international recognition for her dynamic personality and insights into the lives of Dubai’s elite. The show highlighted her professional accomplishments and her connection to her cultural roots. Her passion for fashion, particularly luxury brands like Versace, enhances her role as a cultural ambassador. Through her social media platforms, she shares her life as a business leader, mother, and fashion enthusiast, inspiring her audience with a mix of glamour and substance. Zeina is a strong advocate for women, often encouraging them to balance their career aspirations with family responsibilities. Her husband, Hanna Azzi, general manager of Nikki Beach Hotels & Resorts EMEA, supports her journey, making them a modern power couple rooted in traditional values. Her life exemplifies resilience, ambition, and cultural pride. From overcoming the challenges of displacement to becoming a prominent figure in Dubai’s business and cultural scenes, she serves as an inspiration to countless women aiming for success while honoring their heritage. As she continues to lead High Mark Real Estate and expand her influence, Zeina embodies the limitless possibilities available to those who pursue their dreams with determination and vision.

Sahar Davodi A Visionary Championing Sustainability And Health Through Loch By Jane Stevens Sahar Davodi’s journey from the serene landscapes of Scotland to the dynamic innovation hub of the UAE is a testament to her passion for sustainability, health, and purposeful entrepreneurship. Her brand, LOCH, reflects a deep-seated commitment to addressing environmental challenges while inspiring healthier lifestyles, seamlessly blending her diverse cultural experiences with a forward-thinking business ethos.  Although born in Iran, Sahar Davodi moved to Scotland as a baby, spending her formative years surrounded by its breathtaking landscapes and serene lochs. Raised in a lively Persian family, she was profoundly influenced by the values of connection, hospitality, and cherishing shared moments with loved ones. The UAE, with its relentless drive for innovation and solutions to global challenges, became the perfect backdrop for Sahar to combine these influences into actionable, impactful initiatives.  LOCH was born from Sahar’s dual passion for sustainability and health. Observing the mounting crisis of plastic waste, she was inspired to create a product that not only reduced environmental impact but also promoted hydration as an essential lifestyle choice. Her turning point came after reading Water:  For Health, for Healing, for Life by Dr. F. Batmanghelidj, which underscored the critical role of hydration in overall well-being. Recognizing that access to clean water was intertwined with sustainability, Sahar envisioned a product that would empower individuals to stay hydrated while making environmentally conscious choices.  The brand’s innovative water bottles and accessories reflect its mission: merging functionality, style, and sustainability. Crafted from recycled materials, LOCH bottles are designed to be practical companions that encourage healthier habits. Accessories like bottle pouches and straps, made from upcycled plastic waste, provide added convenience, ensuring that hydration becomes an effortless part of daily routines.  Sahar’s own experiences of improved energy, focus, and mental clarity through proper hydration fuel her determination to inspire others to adopt this simple yet transformative habit. At the heart of LOCH’s operations lies an unwavering commitment to environmental consciousness. By upcycling plastic waste into eco-friendly products, the brand embodies a circular approach to sustainability.  Collaborations with initiatives like the Green Future Project amplify its impact, with a percentage of sales dedicated to restoring natural habitats. LOCH also prioritizes inclusivity, donating slightly imperfect bottles to laborers and gardeners, and reducing plastic waste while promoting hydration among underserved communities.  The ‘With Love, From Dubai’ collection captures the spirit of a city that thrives on contrasts—where traditional values meet groundbreaking innovation. Inspired by Dubai’s vibrant energy, architectural marvels, and growing focus on sustainability, the collection serves as a token of the city’s ability to blend progress with responsibility. It not only celebrates Dubai’s culture but also showcases how eco-conscious living can be seamlessly woven into modern life. Sahar’s entrepreneurial journey has not been without challenges. Promoting eco-conscious products in a region historically reliant on single-use plastics required reshaping consumer habits. By offering accessible, appealing solutions, LOCH successfully demonstrates that sustainability and convenience can coexist. The brand’s stylish and functional designs resonate with individuals seeking both personal wellness and environmental impact, proving that eco-friendly choices can enhance daily living.  Sahar’s professional background, particularly her time with Fairmont Hotels, played a pivotal role in shaping her approach to business. Her experience integrating sustainability into large-scale operations, setting ambitious environmental goals, and collaborating with global teams provided a strong foundation for LOCH. These lessons reinforced her belief that purposeful strategies could drive both impacts and growth, inspiring her to create a brand that aligns profitability with planetary stewardship.  Looking ahead, Sahar envisions LOCH as a global leader in promoting conscious choices, starting with hydration. She plans to expand the product line with innovative, reusable offerings that further inspire sustainable living and healthier habits. By fostering a community of like-minded individuals, Sahar aims to amplify LOCH’s impact, driving a cultural shift toward environmental responsibility and wellness.  Sahar Davodi’s journey, shaped by her rich heritage and experiences, highlights the power of purposeful entrepreneurship. Through LOCH, she is not just building a brand but creating a movement—one that champions sustainability, celebrates health, and empowers individuals to make conscious choices for a better future. With her vision and determination, Sahar is proving that meaningful change is possible, one bottle, one sip, and one conscious decision at a time. LOCH  LOCH is more than just a brand; it’s a movement towards a greener, more sustainable future. Inspired by Scotland’s serene lochs and driven by a deep passion for protecting our planet, LOCH offers thoughtfully designed reusable products that combine elegance with eco-consciousness. Each product is crafted to help reduce single-use plastics, making sustainability an effortless part of everyday life.  In partnership with the Green Future Project, we are committed to restoring ecosystems and combating climate change by dedicating 1% of every sale to environmental initiatives like planting mangroves and preserving vital habitats. AtLOCH, our mission is clear: to create a world where style and sustainability coexist, inspiring positive change for people and the planet.

Sustainable Business and Circular EconomiesA Revolution in Responsibility By Sidra Asif In a world grappling with the twin challenges of dwindling resources and escalating environmental crises, sustainable business practices and circular economies have emerged not merely as concepts but as imperatives. These interconnected paradigms challenge the traditional, linear approach to consumption and production, forging a path toward a future where economic growth and environmental stewardship coexist harmoniously. This article delves deeply into these concepts, exploring their significance, principles, and transformative potential. The Need for Sustainable Business Practices The Industrial Revolution marked the dawn of an era defined by resource extraction and consumption at unprecedented scales. While this paradigm fueled economic growth, it also left a trail of environmental degradation, resource scarcity, and social inequality. The linear economy characterized by the “take-make-dispose” model—operates on the assumption of infinite resources and limitless waste absorption, a premise that has proven unsustainable. Sustainable business practices offer a counter-narrative. They prioritize longevity, responsibility, and regeneration over short-term gains. At its core, sustainable business involves minimizing environmental impact, fostering social equity, and ensuring economic viability. This triple-bottom-line approach has become the cornerstone of modern corporate strategies, addressing not only regulatory pressures but also the growing consumer demand for ethical practices. Circular Economy: The Antidote to Linear Thinking The circular economy builds upon the foundations of sustainability, offering a systemic shift from linear to closed-loop systems. Unlike the linear model, a circular economy emphasizes retaining resources within the economy for as long as possible, extracting maximum value before recovering and regenerating materials. At its heart are three principles: 1. Designing out waste and pollution: Products and systems are crafted to eliminate waste at the design stage. 2. Keeping products and materials in use: Strategies like reuse, repair, refurbishing, and recycling extend product lifespans. 3. Regenerating natural systems: Circular economies aim to return nutrients to ecosystems and improve the natural environment. The circular economy redefines value, shifting focus from ownership to access, from consumption to functionality. Businesses adopting this model often leverage innovative technologies and new business models to thrive while conserving resources.  Key Elements Driving the Transition 1. Technological Innovation Emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and the Internet of Things (IoT) are pivotal to enabling circular economies. These tools enhance supply chain transparency, optimize resource usage, and track product lifecycles. For instance, IoT-enabled sensors in smart appliances allow predictive maintenance, reducing waste and improving efficiency. 2. Policy and Regulation Governments worldwide are enacting policies to foster circular economies. The European Green Deal, for instance, emphasizes resource efficiency, eco-design, and sustainable product regulations. In countries like Japan and the Netherlands, ambitious circular economy goals are steering industries toward systemic change. 3. Corporate Responsibility and Innovation Corporations like Patagonia, IKEA, and Unilever are leading the way by integrating circular principles. From take-back programs to designing for disassembly, these businesses are pioneering sustainable models that inspire industry-wide shifts. 4. Consumer Behavior A growing segment of consumers prefers products that align with their environmental values. Brands that communicate their commitment to sustainability often gain customer loyalty, demonstrating that ethical practices are a competitive advantage. Beyond Recycling: The Misconceptions of Circular Economies One common misconception is equating circular economies with mere recycling. While recycling is integral, it represents only one aspect of the broader framework. Circularity requires a fundamental rethinking of product design, supply chains, and business models. For example, a circular economy prioritizes “upstream interventions”. It focuses on reducing material inputs, improving energy efficiency, and adopting renewable resources rather than solely addressing waste management downstream. Concepts such as product-as-a-service (PaaS) and modular design exemplify how businesses can innovate beyond recycling. Circular Economy in Action: Real-World Case Studies 1. The Rise of Repair Cafés Communities worldwide are embracing the repair movement to combat planned obsolescence. Repair cafés provide spaces where individuals can mend household items, from electronics to clothing, fostering a culture of reuse and extending product life. 2. Loop: Revolutionizing Consumer Goods Loop, a platform launched by TerraCycle, reintroduces the milkman model for modern consumer goods. Customers receive products in reusable packaging, which is collected, cleaned, and refilled, drastically reducing single-use plastics. 3. Philips and Circular Lighting Philips’ “lighting-as-a-service” model demonstrates the power of circular design. Rather than selling light fixtures, Philips provides lighting solutions as a service. This approach incentivizes the company to design long-lasting, energy-efficient products while retaining control over end-of-life disposal. The Economic Case for Sustainability and Circularity Critics often argue that adopting sustainable and circular practices imposes financial burdens. However, evidence increasingly suggests the opposite. Circular economies create economic value by reducing costs associated with raw materials, waste management, and energy consumption. Moreover, these models unlock new revenue streams through innovative services and market differentiation. For instance, a 2018 study by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation estimated that transitioning to a circular economy in Europe alone could generate €1.8 trillion in economic benefits by 2030. Similarly, businesses that embrace sustainability often outperform their peers in long-term financial metrics, showcasing the resilience of ethical practices. Challenges and Barriers to Adoption Despite its promise, transitioning to a circular economy is not without hurdles. 1. Systemic Inertia: Existing linear supply chains are deeply entrenched, requiring significant investment to overhaul. 2. Regulatory Complexity: A lack of standardized policies and fragmented regulations complicates implementation. 3. Cultural Resistance: Changing consumer behavior and industry mindsets remains a formidable challenge. 4. Technological Gaps: While technology plays a key role, access to cutting-edge solutions can be a barrier for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Addressing these challenges requires collaboration across governments, industries, and communities, alongside substantial investment in education, infrastructure, and innovation. Looking Ahead: The Role of Collaboration The transition to sustainable business models and circular economies cannot occur in silos. Partnerships among stakeholders—corporations, governments, non-profits, and academia are essential. Initiatives like the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s CE100 network exemplify how cross-sector collaboration can drive large-scale change.Moreover, education plays a crucial role in equipping the workforce of tomorrow with the skills and mindset needed to thrive in a circular economy. Universities and institutions must integrate circularity

Lubna Suliman Al OlayanDubai Fashion Week’s core highlights By Desk Reporter Lubna Suliman Al Olayan stands as an emblem of transformation and progress in the Arab business landscape, leaving an indelible mark on Saudi Arabia’s economy and beyond. Born into the illustrious Olayan family, she was exposed early to the intricate dynamics of commerce and its capacity to drive societal change. Her leadership at Olayan Financing Company (OFC) has been pivotal in advancing Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification, aligning with the goals of Vision 2030. Lubna broke barriers in 2004 when she became the first woman to join the board of a Saudi publicly listed company, a momentous step toward gender inclusion in the region. She later cemented her influence as the first chairwoman of a Saudi bank, leading the Saudi British Bank (SABB) after its merger with Alawwal Bank, making it the third-largest bank by assets in Saudi Arabia. Under her stewardship, SABB has aimed to become a hub for modern banking while fostering opportunities for Saudi men and women in alignment with the Kingdom’s development goals. Educationally grounded with a Bachelor’s degree from Cornell University and an MBA from Indiana University, Lubna’s academic foundation has complemented her professional acumen. Her early career at Morgan Guaranty in New York provided valuable international experience before she returned to Saudi Arabia to contribute to her family’s conglomerate. Beyond her corporate accomplishments, Lubna is an advocate for societal change, focusing on youth empowerment, gender equality, and entrepreneurship. Her leadership at Alfanar, the first venture philanthropy organization in the Arab world, highlights her commitment to social impact. Alfanar has supported initiatives in education, capacity building, and community development, uplifting marginalized groups across the region. Her philanthropic vision underscores the importance of private sector contributions to societal welfare. Lubna’s belief in fostering dialogue to build cultural bridges reflects her nuanced understanding of Saudi Arabia’s heritage as a cornerstone for global connections. Her personal ethos emphasizes inclusion, respect, and lifelong learning as essential pillars for leadership. Her contributions to business and society have earned her global recognition, including being consistently listed among the most influential women in the world. Lubna’s unwavering dedication to creating a more inclusive and progressive Arab world continues to inspire, setting a benchmark for future generations of leaders.

Mohammed Hussein Al-Amoudi A Legacy of Vision and Integrity By Desk Reporter Mohammed Hussein Al-Amoudi, born in Dessie, Ethiopia, to a Yemeni-Saudi father and an Ethiopian mother, is a prominent business tycoon and one of Africa’s wealthiest individuals. His mixed heritage played a pivotal role in shaping his worldview, blending diverse cultural values and traditions that have influenced his approach to business and philanthropy. Al-Amoudi’s extensive business empire spans multiple industries, including oil, mining, agriculture, real estate, and hospitality, primarily operating through his conglomerates Corral Petroleum Holdings and MIDROC (Mohammed International Development Research and Organization Companies). Al-Amoudi’s entrepreneurial journey is marked by his keen ability to identify opportunities in developing markets. In Ethiopia, his transformative contributions to agriculture have revolutionized the sector, introducing modern farming techniques that have enhanced productivity and food security. His ventures in the energy sector, including refining and distribution networks, have bolstered regional infrastructure, supporting economic growth and stability. Beyond Ethiopia, Al-Amoudi’s business activities extend to other parts of Africa, the Middle East, and Europe, cementing his reputation as a global investor. Philanthropy is a cornerstone of Al-Amoudi’s vision, reflecting his commitment to uplifting underserved communities. His charitable contributions include funding healthcare initiatives such as cancer treatment facilities, maternal health programs, and the construction of hospitals and clinics in Ethiopia and Saudi Arabia. In education, he has supported the development of schools and vocational training centers, empowering individuals with the skills needed to thrive. These efforts underscore his dedication to fostering long-term societal development and peace. Despite his many accomplishments, Al-Amoudi has faced challenges, including his 2017 detention during Saudi Arabia’s anti-corruption crackdown. His release in 2019 highlighted his resilience and the strength of his global network. These experiences reinforced his commitment to economic stability and sustainable development in the regions where he operates. Al-Amoudi’s business philosophy centers on sustainability and empowerment. He emphasizes responsible resource utilization and prioritizes creating local job opportunities, fostering communal growth. His ventures align with his deep cultural ties to Ethiopia and Saudi Arabia, blending respect for tradition with forward-thinking innovation. His investments often focus on improving lives while maintaining a balance between economic growth and environmental responsibility. As a visionary leader, Mohammed Al-Amoudi’s life is a testament to the transformative power of strategic investment and philanthropy in shaping nations. His dedication to his heritage and his progressive outlook have driven significant global impact. Through his story, he inspires others to harness their resources and influence to create meaningful change, showing how a blend of cultural respect and innovative practices can foster progress and unity across borders.